Reform UK has received a significant financial boost with two £36 million donations announced within a 24-hour period, totaling £72 million. The party announced the first donation on Friday evening from cryptocurrency billionaire Ben Delo, which was followed by a matching contribution from another billionaire backer, Christopher Harborne.
These donations bring Reform UK's total raised this year to approximately £90 million. For comparison, the Conservative Party has raised just over £10 million, and the Labour Party has raised £8 million in the same period.
Party sources indicated that the substantial influx of funds will be used to enhance the party's operational infrastructure. This includes hiring campaign managers in target constituencies, recruiting strategists and policy experts, and establishing an "attack unit" to target political rivals. The party believes this will enable them to focus on preparations for governing.
The timing of these donations comes amid speculation that Prime Minister Andy Burnham might consider calling an early general election. The increased financial capacity of Reform UK could influence such considerations.
Christopher Harborne, a former Conservative donor who has previously contributed £15 million to Reform UK, is reportedly under investigation by the parliamentary commissioner for standards regarding a £5 million personal gift to Nigel Farage. Harborne stated his expectation for his donations is "Nothing. No peerage, no policy change, just a Party that is ready for government." He expressed a commitment to using his wealth for Britain and humanity, aiming for his descendants to have opportunities for happy and productive lives.
Nigel Farage stated he was honored by the confidence shown by Delo and Harborne, asserting that their generosity allows Reform UK to compete on a level playing field in the upcoming general election. Ben Delo, co-founder of the cryptocurrency trading platform BitMex, also donated £4 million earlier this year. He stated his £36 million donation was intended to ensure a "fair fight" against perceived entrenched advantages of opposing parties.
Delo, 42, announced his return to the UK this year following Labour's plans to cap donations from British citizens residing abroad. He expressed a desire for a level playing field in political engagement.
Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice thanked Ben Delo for his contribution, stating it would aid in employing top personnel and building a professional campaign and policy platform, emphasizing the goal to "save Britain and make Britain amazing again."
Separately, the Metropolitan Police have launched a criminal inquiry into allegations that senior figures within the party may have breached donation rules, following an undercover investigation broadcast by Channel 4. A Labour Party spokesperson criticized Reform UK, suggesting the donations do not absolve the party of questions regarding "sleaze, criminal mates and dodgy finances" and called for transparency and cooperation with the police.